Installing a backwash water filter is an easy and cost-efficient way of improving the quality of your drinking water. It filters out impurities, debris, and contaminants that could be present in tap water. Choosing a filter designed for the type of water being filtered is essential. For example, if you are filtering city water, you must choose a filter designed for this purpose. The installation process for a backwash water filter is simple, but it’s essential to take the time to ensure it is done correctly.
What Is A Backwashing Water Filter?
A backwashing water filter is a type of filtration system that uses a reverse-flow process to clean and purify water. Water enters the filter tank, passes through layers of filters, and then exits as cleaner, purer water. The filter requires periodic cleaning (backwashing) to remove contaminants from the filters. Backwashing also helps to extend the life of the filter.
There are two types of backwashing water filters – gravity-fed and pressure-driven.
- Gravity-fed filters use the force of gravity to push water through layers of filtering media,
- Pressure-driven filters rely on a pump to push water through the system.
How To Install A Backwash Water Filter?
Select a location: Choose a spot close to the water source, preferably on the same level as the water source.
Gather the necessary tools: For this installation, you will need a wrench or adjustable pliers, a drill and bit, a pipe joint compound, water filter housing, and backwashing valve fittings.
Attach the inlet and outlet connectors: Attach the inlet and outlet connectors. This can be done using a wrench and a couple of washers. Place some Teflon tape on the threads of the connectors and tighten them with a wrench until they are snug.
Attach the pressure release valve: Start by attaching the pressure release valve to the filter. Use a wrench to tighten the valve and ensure it is securely in place.
Fill the tank with water: The tank must be filled with water before installing a backwash water filter. This can be done by filling it with a garden hose or connecting it to your home’s water supply.
Add the media: Once you have the tools and parts needed, it’s time to install the backwash water filter. Installing a backwash water filter can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your experience level.
Connect the unit to the water supply system: Connect the unit to your water supply system. You will need to cut into the pipes using a pipe cutter or saw and attach the new fittings to add the filter to your existing plumbing.
Connect the drain hose: After connecting the backwash water filter to your main water line, it’s time to attach the drain hose. The drain hose will help you remove any of the debris that has been filtered out.
Priming the filter system: It’s essential to prime the filter system. This means ensuring that all air and sediment are removed from the tank before hooking up the system and turning on the water supply.
- Shut off the incoming main water valve to your home.
- Open any faucet connected to the water filter system to allow the air pressure in the tank to drop.
- Slowly fill the tank with a garden hose until you have a steady stream of water running out of each faucet connected to it.
Test the system: Once installed, it is essential to ensure it works correctly. To do this, check for water pressure and any leaks in the filter or tubing. If there are any problems with the installation, they should be resolved before using the filter. Make sure to flush out your filter as well.
How Do Backwashing Filters Work?
Forward Water Filtration: Most water filters allow clean water to pass through a filtration medium that catches and holds debris, sediment, and other contaminants. This is referred to as forward filtration.
Backflush: Backwashing filters use the same filtration medium, but they do something extra. When the filter becomes clogged with debris, it reverses its flow and flushes out the accumulated dirt and sediment trapped in the filter. This process is referred to as backflushing or backwashing. The water that passes through during this process contains all the dirt and sediment removed from the filter. It is then generally discharged through a drain line or septic system.
What Can A Backwash Filter Remove?
- Iron, manganese
- Fluoride, pesticides
- Chlorine, chloramine, trihalomethanes, haloacetic acids
- Hydrogen sulfide
- Odor and foul taste
- Suspended matter, marine sediments
Where Should You Install The Backwash Water Filter?
The ideal location for installing a backwash water filter is near the main water supply line. This will allow easy access for the filter media to be changed and make it easier to connect the hoses from the filter to your existing plumbing. Check with your local building codes before starting any installation process. You’ll also want to ensure that the filter is installed in an area where you can easily access it and that any materials used for installation are appropriately rated.
Where Are the Backwash Filters Used?
City water supply: Many city water supplies contain chlorine, sediment, and other impurities that must be removed. A backwashing filter can remove these impurities in a single step.
Pool cleaning and maintenance: Backwash filters can be used to clean and maintain your pool. Backwashing removes debris, dirt, algae, bacteria, and other contaminants in just one step.
Domestic whole-house water filtration systems: Backwash filters can be used in domestic whole-house water filtration systems to remove contaminants such as lead, iron, and other contaminants that may be present in the water supply. It is an effective way to ensure safe drinking water for your family.
Hotels, restaurants, resorts, and casinos: Backwash filters are used in these establishments to reduce water treatment costs and ensure that guests have clean, safe drinking water.
Supermarkets and convenience stores: Supermarkets and convenience stores often use backwash filters to reduce water treatment costs. These filters help ensure customers access clean, safe drinking water.
Well water filtration systems: Well water filtration systems are used to remove sediment, iron, and other contaminants from healthy water. A backwashing filter can help reduce maintenance costs by removing these impurities in a single step.
Dry cleaners: Dry cleaners often use backwash filters to reduce water treatment costs. These filters help ensure that customers have access to high-quality, clean, and safe drinking water.
Cooling towers: Cooling towers often use backwash filters to reduce water treatment costs and keep the tower free from contaminants that can cause damage.
Livestock operations: Backwash filters are used in some livestock operations to reduce water treatment costs and ensure that the animals have access to clean, safe drinking water.
Agricultural irrigation: Backwash filters can be used in agricultural irrigation systems to reduce water treatment costs and ensure that the crops are irrigated with clean, safe drinking water.
Nurseries, greenhouses, and hydroponic systems: Backwash filters can be used in nurseries, greenhouses, and hydroponic systems to reduce their costs of water treatment and ensure that the plants are rinsed with clean, safe drinking water.
Portable water treatment plants: Backwash filters can be used in portable water treatment plants to reduce water treatment costs and ensure that the treated water meets all health standards.
Why Is Backwashing Of Water Filters Important?
Backwashing acts as a filter rejuvenation process: It clears out the fine particles and impurities accumulated on the filter media, improving water quality. It also helps maintain the integrity of the filter system. Regular backwashing will ensure your filter runs efficiently while helping extend its lifespan.
It removes infectious contamination: Backwashing can remove dangerous bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from your water supply. By flushing away these contaminants, you can reduce your risk of getting sick from drinking contaminated water.
It aerates and releases the filtration space: Backwashing can help to regulate the amount of air and water in your system. This helps to ensure that particles are not allowed to remain in the filter media for too long, which can block the flow of clean water.
FAQs
Do the Sediment Filters remove anything besides sediment?
No, the sediment filters are designed to precisely remove particulate matter from your water supply. They do not have any other functionality and should not be used for chemical or biological filtration.
Is there a pressure loss through the system?
When it comes to installing a backwash water filter, pressure loss should be taken into consideration. Pressure reduction occurs when the water passes through the media bed in the tank and any additives used with it. This can cause a differential pressure between input and output, reducing the availability of treated water.
Can I route the backwash water to my septic tank?
Yes, you can route the backwash water from your backwash filter system to your home septic tank. This is a great way to help keep your septic tank well-maintained and functioning correctly.
How long should I backwash the water filter?
Your water filter system determines the duration of the backwash cycle. Generally, it takes 30 to 45 seconds for newer models and up to 2 minutes for older ones. However, if you have a high-capacity model, the appropriate time could be longer than 2 minutes.
How often should I backwash my water filter?
The frequency of backwashing depends on the usage rate and water quality. It is generally recommended to backwash your water filter once a month if you are using it regularly.
Do you lose water when you backwash the pool?
No, you do not lose water when backwashing a pool. Backwashing helps maintain the efficiency of your filter and keeps it running properly as it removes dirt and debris from the filter media. As debris accumulates in the filter media, the water pressure increases to push through.
Why do you backwash a sand filter?
Backwashing a sand filter is necessary to keep the filter working correctly and efficiently.
My water filter has stopped backwashing. What should I do?
If your water filter has stopped backwashing, cleaning, and purifying, the filters have likely been interrupted.
Conclusion
Installing a backwash water filter is relatively straightforward. You should begin by researching the type of filter you’ll need for your home’s water system, ensuring that it meets all relevant safety standards. Then, you can decide on the location of the filter and prepare the area. This may require cutting a hole in the pipe, as well as sealing around it. After that, you can assemble and attach the filter to the water system and start using it immediately. If done correctly, your backwash water filter should keep your drinking water safe and clean for years to come.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.